French Onion Pasta Bowls take the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup and combine them with tender pasta and gooey melted cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy nights in or as a delicious twist on a classic favorite. With caramelized onions, beefy broth, and plenty of cheese, this pasta is comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients
- 3 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Garlic croutons
- Extra shredded cheese for broiling
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes or until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Lower the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
- Add the thyme and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- If using, pour in the white wine and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook until the wine has evaporated, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Broth
- Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce (if using) to the onions. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- While the onions are simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Onions
- Add the cooked pasta to the onion and broth mixture, tossing to combine everything thoroughly.
- Stir in 1 cup of the shredded Gruyère cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the pasta.
Step 5: Broil for Extra Cheese (Optional)
- Preheat the broiler. Transfer the pasta mixture to individual oven-safe bowls or a large casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère and Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and garlic croutons if desired.
- Serve the pasta bowls hot and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness!
Cook Notes
- Caramelizing Onions: Take your time when caramelizing the onions to achieve deep, sweet flavors. Low and slow is key!
- Cheese: Gruyère is traditional for French onion flavors, but Swiss cheese or mozzarella also work well. You can also add extra Parmesan for a more intense cheesy flavor.
- Broth: Beef broth adds a rich, deep flavor, but you can use vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian option.
Variations
- French Onion Chicken Pasta: Add cooked, shredded chicken to the pasta for extra protein and flavor.
- Vegetarian French Onion Pasta: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Creamy French Onion Pasta: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream along with the cheese for a creamier sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can caramelize the onions and prepare the broth ahead of time. Store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta, combine, and broil with cheese.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If desired, broil extra cheese on top before serving.
Can I freeze French onion pasta?
Yes, you can freeze the caramelized onion and broth mixture. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before combining with fresh pasta and cheese.
What can I serve with French onion pasta bowls?
This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
French Onion Pasta Bowls are a delicious, comforting twist on the classic French onion soup. With sweet caramelized onions, savory broth, and melty cheese, this pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors in every bite!
